EndNote Desktop

EndNote is a reference management tool which enables you to efficiently build your own library of references and then use this to create citations and reference lists within a Microsoft Word document.  These can then be formatted in a range of different referencing styles. 

EndNote Desktop is recommended for use by all students and staff at the University of Birmingham.

EndNote Desktop software

EndNote 2025 is the current version of the software and is available for users of both Microsoft and macOS.  Information about system requirements and word processor compatibility is available from Clarivate (the suppliers of EndNote). 

EndNote 2025 can be accessed as follows:

• University supplied Windows computer - launch from AppsAnywhere.
• University supplied Mac computer - install from JAMF Software Centre or AppsAnywhere.
• Personal Windows computer - launch or install from AppsAnywhere.
• Personal Mac computer - install from AppsAnywhere.

The IT Service Desk can help you if you experience problems accessing the software.

Please note that accessing the EndNote 2025 software from any of the University of Birmingham software stores is covered by the terms and conditions of the University of Birmingham licence and permitted for the duration of your time at the University of Birmingham. 

To continue using EndNote 2025 after leaving the institution, you will need to purchase a personal copy from Clarivate.

Note: The pre-current version of EndNote Desktop - EndNote 21 - will remain available to launch or download until 30 September 2026. If you are using EndNote 21, you should feel no short-term obligation to upgrade to EndNote 2025 (for example, if you are submitting a research thesis within the next 12 months).

Incompatibility with cloud storage

EndNote is not compatible with any cloud storage solutions such as OneDrive, Dropbox and iCloud and when setting up your EndNote library you should avoid saving it to a cloud location. When choosing where to store your EndNote library, we strongly recommend saving it to the hard drive of your computer, and to ensure that this location is not being backed up to a cloud solution. Clarivate provide further information on EndNote's incompatibility with cloud storage.

Help with using EndNote Desktop

Libraries and Learning Resources can support the use of EndNote Desktop by University of Birmingham staff and students as follows:

• The Introduction to EndNote 2025 Canvas course offers introductory teaching on everything you need to get started with using EndNote Desktop. If you are using EndNote 21 - the pre-current version of EndNote - and would like to continue to do so, the EndNote 21 Canvas course remains available for training and support.
• If you are an undergraduate or taught postgraduate student support for using EndNote is provided by the Academic Skills Centre.
• If you are a research student (MRes, PhD etc.), researcher, or academic member of staff, the Research Skills Team offers a range of training opportunities and other support for EndNote Desktop.
• Clarivate’s EndNote LibGuide provides a wealth of information about EndNote. 
• The library’s EndNote Online Guide gives more information about using EndNote Online as an alternative to EndNote Desktop.